Comparative Study of Sealing Ability of Different Filling Materials for Root End: An In Vitro Evaluation

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Failure in surgical endodontic techniques can occur most commonly due to improper seal in the apical region. The root-end filling material used should not allow the contamination of the periapical tissue. The aim of the present study was to compare the ability of white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), white Portland cement (PC) and intermediate restorative material (IRM) for sealing root-end by dye leakage test. Materials and Methods 120 teeth with single root were prepared through instruments. Following obturation, the apex was cut, and a cavity was made. Then, the teeth were divided into four groups (Group I: MTA, Group II: white PC, Group III: IRM, Group IV: control). Cavities made at apex in the first three groups were then filled with the respective materials. Exposure to the dye, India Ink, was then done for a time period of 72 hours. The depth of penetration of dye inside the whole root was then evaluated with a magnification of 16X under stereomicroscope in vitro. Result MTA showed statistically significant difference in sealing ability (p < 0.05) as compared with other materials. Conclusion MTA cement showed better sealing ability. It is an ideal retrograde filling material, because it is a biocompatible material and has a good marginal adaptation as compared with PC which, in turn, showed better sealing ability than IRM.